Methods and apparatuses involving flexible cable/guidewire/interconnects

ABSTRACT

Various embodiments of the present disclosure are directed toward apparatus and methods including communication circuits for communicating between a plurality of compartments in a vehicle. An array of flexible cables provides signal-communication paths between the plurality of compartments in the vehicle, with each cable having a glass or silica core region for conveying optical signals, and communicating signals (electrical signals and optical signals) along at least one of the signal-communication paths and between the plurality of compartments in the vehicle. The apparatus and methods also include a plurality of circuits that communicate status-indication signals between locations along the array of flexible cables. The status-indication signals are communicated via the signal-communication paths in the flexible array of cables and are indicative of vehicle-travel modes for reporting a status of the vehicle in a mode relative to travel of the vehicle.

RELATED DOCUMENTS

This patent document claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119 to U.S.Provisional Patent Applications, Ser. No. 61/614,122 entitled“CABLE/GUIDEWIRE/INTERCONNECTS COMMUNICATION APPARATUS AND METHODS,”Ser. No. 61/614,162 entitled “METHODS AND APPARATUSES INVOLVING FLEXIBLECABLE/GUIDEWIRE/INTERCONNECTS,” and Ser. No. 61/614,169 entitled“METHODS OF MANUFACTURE, USES AND RELATED APPARATUSES INVOLVING FLEXIBLECABLE/GUIDEWIRE/INTERCONNECTS,” each of which was filed on Mar. 22,2012. These provisional patent documents and appendices filed therewithare incorporated herein by reference generally, and specifically for itscorresponding teachings as is apparent, for example, in connection withthe common figures.

BACKGROUND

Reliable and rapid communication of data in terrain and aerospacevehicles is important to ensure accurate reporting of various vehicle oraircraft conditions. For instance, in order to properly and safelyoperate an aircraft, a pilot or remote operator is typically providedwith updates on the various operational status of the personnel,passengers, and or mechanical moving parts of the vehicle. These are buta few of the many types of tangibles and operational modes that can beconsidered important. Communication can be difficult in theseapparatuses because of harsh environmental conditions and difficulty inrouting channels of communication.

Other issues include concerns with other modes of operation in light ofsuch status as well as increased weight and space limitations whenattempting to accommodate the desire to monitor the various aspects ofsuch vehicles. These and other matters have presented challenges tocommunication circuitry and channels of communication, for a variety ofapplications.

SUMMARY

Various example embodiments are directed to communication circuitry fora moveable vehicle (e.g., airplane, unmanned aircraft, all-terrainvehicle, automobile) that includes at least one flexible cable and itsimplementation. The flexible cables can be provided in an array such asa mesh type arrangement to provide a large surface area of coverage ofan area or portion of a vehicle, or the array can be formed over orportions of the moveable apparatus or all of the moveable apparatus.Communication is carried out between remote locations of the vehicle(where communication circuitry is located) using the flexible cable(s),and can include both optical and electrical signals. Because the cablesare provided throughout the vehicle, and often over long distances, itcan be desirable to connect portions of a single cable together, orconnect multiple cables together. Thus, various aspects of the presentdisclosure are also directed toward interconnects that mechanicallysecure portions of the cable, and also couple signals (both electricaland optical signals) that are carried thereon.

Various aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward apparatusand methods including a communication circuit for communicating betweena plurality of compartments in a vehicle. These apparatus and methodsutilize an array of flexible cables to provide signal-communicationpaths between the plurality of compartments in the vehicle. Each cableincludes a glass or silica core region for conveying optical signals,and each communicates signals along at least one of thesignal-communication paths and between the plurality of compartments inthe vehicle. The signals communicated include electrical signals andoptical signals. Also included in the methods and apparatus of thepresent disclosure are a plurality of circuits. The plurality ofcircuits include a first circuit located at a proximate location alongthe array of flexible cables, and secondary circuits located at distallocations along the array of flexible cables. The plurality of circuitscommunicate status-indication signals between the locations along thearray of flexible cables. The status-indication signals are communicatedvia the signal-communication paths in the flexible array of cables andare indicative of a first vehicle-travel mode for reporting a status ofthe vehicle in a mode relative to travel of the vehicle. The firstcircuit receives the status-indication signals from the secondarycircuits. In response to the receipt of the status-indication signals,the first circuit reports or analyzes the vehicle based on the status ofthe vehicle, as indicated at the distal locations, for a mode relativeto travel of the vehicle.

Various embodiments of the present disclosure are also directed towardapparatus and methods including communication circuit for communicatingbetween a plurality of compartments in an unmanned aerial vehicle. Insuch embodiments, the status-indication signals are communicated via thesignal-communication paths in the flexible array of cables, and areindicative of the status of the compartments of the vehicle while thevehicle is airborne and without user-visual monitoring capabilities.

The above discussion/summary is not intended to describe each embodimentor every implementation of the present disclosure. The figures anddetailed description that follow also exemplify various embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Various example embodiments may be more completely understood inconsideration of the following detailed description in connection withthe accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 depicts an example embodiment for a flexible and durable wire,consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 depicts a mesh layout of flexible and durable wires includingvertical communications circuits and horizontal communications circuits,consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 depicts a mesh layout with a return path for flexible and durablewires, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 depicts a mesh layout with two continuous runs of flexible anddurable wires providing a mesh layout, consistent with variousembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 depicts a wire having an optically exposed portion, consistentwith embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 also depicts a wire having an optically exposed portion,consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 also shows an exposed portion that provides an electricallyexposed portion, consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 depicts a ribbon cabling option, consistent with embodiments ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 9 depicts cabling for various bundling of wires, consistent withembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 depicts a system for power generation and delivery, consistentwith embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 depicts a multiple wire solution with built in redundancy,consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 depicts a set of one or more wires separated by a material,consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 depicts a wire having multiple conductive paths, consistent withembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 depicts connection solutions for intersecting wires, consistentwith embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 depicts connection solutions for intersecting wires, consistentwith embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 shows an optical fiber cable with a glass or plastic opticalfiber that carries light along its length and various layers ofprotective and strengthening materials surrounding the optical fiber,consistent with various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 shows a cable-based sensing system that carries signals from thelengths or sensor nodes which are located in and nearby seat cushions,consistent with various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18 shows a cable-based sensing system for monitoring flight controlsurfaces on an aircraft, consistent with various aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 19 shows an optical fiber cable with a glass or plastic opticalfiber that carries light and/or electrical signals along a path,consistent with various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 20 shows a cable-based sensing/control system for aircraft flapsand spoilers and receiving feedback from the aircraft flaps and spoilersduring operation, consistent with various aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 21 shows a system for launch and recovery of an unmanned aerialvehicle using a pole member attached to a deck of a ship, consistentwith various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 22A shows an optical fiber cable arrangement, constructed with aglass or plastic optical fiber, which carries light along its length(including various layers of protective and strengthening materialssurrounding the optical fiber), consistent with various aspects of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 22B shows an optical fiber cable arrangement, constructed with aglass or plastic optical fiber, which carries light along its edges,consistent with various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 22C shows an optical fiber cable arrangement, constructed with aglass or plastic optical fiber, which carries light along its length,consistent with various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 23A shows a cable-based system for transferring and collectingconverted sunlight electricity from an aircraft containing solar panels,consistent with various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 23B shows a cable-based system for transferring and collecting datafrom an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV), consistent with variousaspects of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 23C shows a cable-based system for transferring and collecting datafrom a data collector to a submarine or an unmanned underwater vehicle(UUV), consistent with various aspects of the present disclosure.

While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternativeforms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in thedrawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood,however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to theparticular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is tocover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling withinthe scope of the invention including aspects defined in the claims. Inaddition, the term “example” as used throughout this application is onlyby way of illustration, and not limitation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects of the present invention are believed to be applicable to avariety of different types of apparatus, methods and arrangementsdirected to communication circuitry for a moveable vehicle (e.g.,airplane, unmanned aircraft, all-terrain vehicle, automobile) thatincludes at least one flexible cable. While the present invention is notnecessarily so limited, various aspects of the invention may beappreciated through a discussion of examples using this context.

Various example embodiments are directed toward apparatus and methodsincluding a communication circuit for communicating between a pluralityof compartments in a vehicle. These apparatus and methods utilize anarray of flexible cables to provide signal-communication paths betweenthe plurality of compartments in the vehicle. Each cable includes aglass or silica core region for conveying optical signals, and eachcommunicates signals along at least one of the signal-communicationpaths and between the plurality of compartments in the vehicle. Thesignals communicated include electrical signals and optical signals.Also included in the methods and apparatus of the present disclosure area plurality of circuits. The plurality of circuits include a firstcircuit located at a proximate location along the array of flexiblecables, and secondary circuits located at distal locations along thearray of flexible cables. The plurality of circuits communicatestatus-indication signals between the locations along the array offlexible cables. The status-indication signals are communicated via thesignal-communication paths in the flexible array of cables and areindicative of a first vehicle-travel mode for reporting a status of thevehicle in a mode relative to travel of the vehicle. The first circuitreceives the status-indication signals from the secondary circuits. Inresponse to the receipt of the status-indication signals, the firstcircuit reports or analyzes the vehicle based on the status of thevehicle, as indicated at the distal locations, for a mode relative totravel of the vehicle.

Various embodiments of the present disclosure are also directed towardapparatus and methods including a communication circuit forcommunicating between a plurality of compartments in an unmanned aerialvehicle. In such embodiments, the status-indication signals arecommunicated via the signal-communication paths in the flexible array ofcables, and are indicative of the status of the compartments of thevehicle while the vehicle is airborne and without user-visual monitoringcapabilities.

In certain embodiments, the glass or silica core region has a physicalcharacteristic that is limited by an outer dimension that is less than750 microns and also a conductive cladding surrounding the core region.Additionally, in other embodiments, the status-indication signals areindicative of an operating function of one or more of: functionality ofexterior control surfaces of the vehicle, positioning of wing flaps ofthe vehicle, alignment of control surfaces of the vehicle, atmosphericconditions of critical surfaces of the vehicle, and position of wheelsof the vehicle. Further, in certain embodiments of the presentdisclosure, the status-indication signals are indicative of seatingstatus of passengers in the vehicle.

Moreover, in certain embodiments of the present disclosure, thevehicle-travel mode is at least one of a steady-state movement mode ofthe vehicle, an acceleration mode of the vehicle, and a decelerationmode of the vehicle. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the vehicleis an all-terrain-vehicle or an automobile in which the first circuitcollects vehicle-safety data regarding the status of vehicle while thevehicle or automobile is traveling. The vehicle can also be an unmannedaerial vehicle or a manned aircraft vehicle in which the first circuitcollects vehicle-safety data regarding the status of vehicle while theunmanned aerial vehicle or a manned aircraft vehicle is traveling.Further, the signal-communication paths, of various embodiments of thepresent disclosure, can pass redundant status-indication signals ofmechanical aspects of the vehicle. In other embodiments, thesignal-communication paths pass complimentary status-indication signalsof mechanical aspects of the vehicle. The signal-communication paths canalso provide a two-way data pathway.

In certain embodiments of the present disclosure, each cable includes atleast one electrically exposed portion, and the cables detect conductivechanges in a material of the cable in contact with the at least oneelectrically exposed portion. In these embodiments, the conductivechanges can be indicative of unwanted moisture. Additionally, certainembodiments of the present disclosure include cables that have at leastone optically exposed portion. In these embodiments, the cable detectsoptical changes in the cable in contact with the at least one opticallyexposed portion. In other embodiments, the secondary circuits arearranged with mechanical aspects of the vehicle, and communicatestatus-indication signals of the mechanical aspects.

Various aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward a flexibleand durable fine wire electrical conductor, termed a cable or wire. Theelectrical conductor used to fabricate a lead is formed from a drawnsilica, glass, or sapphire crystalline quartz fiber core, hereinreferred to collectively as a glass fiber, with a conductive metalbuffer cladding on the core. For either a metallized glass or polymerfiber, the structure can also be enhanced by incorporating a polymercoating over the metal buffer cladding, which may provide abiocompatible surface resistant to environmental stress cracking orother mechanism of degradation associated with exposure and flexurewithin a biological system. In certain embodiments, the polymer coatingmay serve simply as an electrical insulation. In an alternativeembodiment, a polymer fiber core is configured to serve as a substratefor metallization instead of a glass fiber. In this embodiment, arelatively inelastic but flexible polymer is chosen such that thepolymer fiber core is relatively resistant to tensile forces, but canbend in a manner to enable application in non-linear configurations.

Metallization may be done on a polymer fiber during the process ofcreating the polymer core-typically extrusion. Alternatively, thepolymer may be metallized in a separate step following extrusion.Hermetic sealing of the polymer core by metallization mayor may not benecessary, depending on the polymer and intended application of theelectrically conductive product. Various means of metallization suitablefor polymer substrates are known in the art such as integration of themetal into the polymer surface in order to achieve desired adhesion ofmetal to the polymer. As for the case of glass fibers, metallization ofpolymer may involve initial laying down of one thin metal coating usinga metal known to result in good adhesion of metal to polymer, followedby a second metal coating. In this approach, the first metal layer maynot have good electrical conductivity, but its primary purpose is toprovide a strong adhesion to polymer, and a metal surface suitable forlaying down a second metal layer with desired electrical conductivitycharacteristics. In additional embodiments, metals may be mixed directlywith glass or silica or polymer core substrates to produce electricallyconductive fibers.

The outer diameter of the electrical conductor preferably is less thanabout 750 microns, and may be 200 microns or even as small as 50microns. Metals employed in the buffer can include aluminum, silver,gold, platinum, titanium, tantalum, gallium, or others, as well as metalalloys of which MP35N, a nickel-cobalt based alloy platinum-iridium, andgallium-indium are examples. In certain embodiments, the metal claddingis aluminum, silver, or gold, applied to the glass fiber core. This mayinclude immediate application upon drawing the fiber, or may involveapplication of metal to a pre-formed glass fiber by one of severalprocesses including chemical or physical vapor deposition, orelectroplating.

Metallization of the glass fiber provides a protective hermetic sealover the fiber surface. Alternatively, the glass fiber can behermetically sealed with carbon or polymer following drawing of thefiber, the surface of which can then be metallized by one of theprocesses previously mentioned. This embodiment is further detailedbelow.

For applications in which delivery of high voltage or current is needed,multiple fibers can be used in parallel. For instance, for a metallizedglass fiber of given length, for example, approximately 36 inches, andan overall electrical circuit of a given resistance, say 100 ohms,capable of supporting a 25 millisecond exponential pulse of 1500 volts,the peak current load would be 15 amps, based on Ohms law. If anelectric pulse of greater amplitude is required, say 30 amps, then twoor more metallized glass fibers can be electrically coupled in parallelto provide a current path capable of supporting an electric pulse of 30amps.

Alternatively, the glass fiber can be fabricated as a dielectric with ametal wire in the center of the glass fiber core as one electricalconductor, and a metallic buffer layer applied on the outside of theglass fiber core, both protecting the fiber and acting as a coaxialsecond conductor or ground return.

In other embodiments, a further layer of silica, glass, etc. (as above)covers the metallic cladding, with a further electrically conductivebuffer covering that dielectric layer. This embodiment may be with orwithout a center wire in the inner fiber. These silica, glass, etc.layers and buffer coatings can be continued for several more layers toproduce a multiple conductor cable. In a further embodiment the centerof the fiber core is hollow to increase flexibility of a lead of a givendiameter. In still a further embodiment, multiple conductors areembedded separately side-by-side in the glass fiber core, where theglass serves to electrically insulate the conductors from each other.

In an additional embodiment, an electrical conductor is composed of manysmaller metal-buffered or metal wire-centered glass fibers that togetherprovide the electrical connection. This embodiment allows for highredundancy for each connection and very high flexibility. Additionalembodiments differ from the aforementioned embodiments in that metal isnot necessarily applied directly to the glass fiber. As mentionedpreviously, a non-metal buffer such as carbon and/or polymer may beapplied directly to the glass fiber core to form a protective hermeticseal layer on the fiber. Metal can then be deposited upon the carbonand/or polymer in a subsequent step. Such a metal deposition process mayconveniently take place through a batch process, or via a continuousdeposition process, in which carbon—and/or polymercoated fiber is movedcontinuously through a deposition chamber during the metal depositionprocess. Such metal deposition may be carried out by vapor deposition,electroplating—especially upon an electrically conductive carbonsurface, by coating with an electrically conductive ink, or by one ofnumerous other metal deposition processes known in the art. In the caseof vapor deposition and related processes governed by line-of-sightconsiderations, one or more metal targets—sources for vaporized metal,may be positioned within the metal deposition chamber in such a way asto ensure overlap and complete 360 degree coverage of the fiber duringthe metal deposition process. Alternately, the fiber may be turned orrotated within the vapor deposition field to ensure complete and uniformdeposition. Vapor deposition processes are typically carried out in anevacuated chamber at low atmospheric pressure (approximately 1.0×10⁻⁶torr).

After evacuation is attained, the chamber is backfilled with aplasma-forming gas, typically argon, to a pressure of 2.0×10⁻³ torr.Masking may be pre-applied to the carbon and/or polymer surface toenable a patterned coating of metal on the carbon and/or polymersurface. Such a pattern may be useful for creating two or more separateelectrically conductive paths along the length of the electricalconductor, thus enabling fabrication of a bipolar or multipolarconductor upon a single electrical conductor Inherent in the concept ofa metallized electrical conductor according to this invention is theability to use more than one metal in the construction of suchelectrical conductors. For instance, an initial metal may be depositedon the basis of superior adhesion to the carbon and/or polymerunderlayment. One or more additional metals or metal alloys could thenbe deposited on the first metal. Intent of the second metal would be toserve as the primary conductive material for carrying electricalcurrent.

The completed metallized electrical conductor may then be convenientlycoated with a thin polymeric material, such as Teflon to provideinsulation and/or lubriciousness. Also, polyurethane or silicone orother insulative polymers may conveniently be used as jacketingmaterial, providing biocompatibility and protection from the externalenvironment. A coaxial iteration of this embodiment incorporating twoindependent electrical conductors may be constructed in which a metalelectrical conductor is embedded within the central glass or silicacore, with the second conductor being applied to the carbon and/orpolymer buffer residing on the outer surface of the glass or silicacore. In an additional embodiment of metal cladding for the glass fiber,temporary sealing materials may be applied to the glass fiber forprotection. Subsequent steps carried out in a controlled environmentfacilitate removal of the temporary sealing materials, followed byresurfacing the fiber with metal or other material, such as polymer orcarbon. Such steps enable controlled metal surfaces to be applieddirectly to the glass fiber, if so desired. Temporary sealing materialsmay consist of polymers, carbon, or metals, which are chosen ease ofremoval. In the case of polymers, removal may be facilitated bydissolution in appropriate solvent, heat, alteration in pH or ionicstrength, or other known means of control. Carbon and metals may beremoved by chemical or electrochemical etching, heating, or other knownmeans of control.

As indicated previously, various metals or metal alloys may be suitablefor employment as a permanently deposited electrical conductor of thisinvention. Idealized properties include excellent electricalconductivity with low electrical resistance, resistance to corrosion, orheat, which may be employed at various steps during the electricalconductor manufacturing process. Additional resistance to exposure tocold, vacuum, vibration, and cyclic bending fatigue represent desiredcharacteristics.

Estimated metal cross sectional area for a desired electrical resistancemay be determined theoretically from the following relationship:R=p*(1/A), where R=resistance (ohms), p metal resistivity (ohms-cm),1=conductor length (cm) and A=cross sectional area of conductor. Thus,desired resistance is equal to the product of resistivity and thequotient of length and cross-sectional area. For some applications ofthe electrical conductor of this invention, desired electricalresistance may be on the order of 50 ohms. Using silver as an example,resistivity is 1.63×10⁻⁶ ohms-cm. Thus, a silver conductor ofapproximately 1000 nm thickness would provide the desired electricalresistance for an electrical conductor of approximately 0.015 cmdiameter and 80 cm length.

Various aspects of the present disclosure contemplate cables (meaningglass fiber incorporating one or more electrical conductors) of aslittle as 100 to 200 micron diameter, or as large as 750 microns or morein diameter, and even unipolar electrical conductors as small as 50microns in diameter or even smaller. These small diameter electricalconductors have significant flexibility with an achievable bend radiusof less than 1 mm, to provide placement in tortuous tracts.

The multipolar electrical conductor representing one embodiment of thisinvention adapts technologies that have been developed for variousdisparate applications. Glass fiber is produced from a draw tower, afurnace that melts the silica or glass (or grown crystals for thesapphire and quartz) and allows the fiber to be pulled, “drawn,”vertically from the bottom of the furnace. Fibers produced in thismanner have strength of over 1 Mpsi. If the drawn fiber is allowed tosit in normal atmospheric conditions for more than a few minutes, itsstrength will rapidly be reduced to the order of 2-10 kpsi. Thisreduction is caused by water vapor attack on the outer silica or glasssurface, causing minute cracking Bending the silica or glass fibercauses the outside of the bend to be put into tension and the cracks topropagate across the fiber causing failure. To ensure that the fiberremains at its maximum strength, a buffer is added to fibers as they aredrawn. As the fiber is drawn and cools, a plastic coating, the buffer,is applied in a continuous manner protecting the fiber within a secondof being produced.

For further discussion of cables and wires, consistent with variousaspects of the present disclosure, reference can be made to Appendices Dand E of the underlying provisional applications, which are incorporatedby reference. Additionally, the above discussion of cables and wires isapplicable to various ones of the below discussed figures.

FIG. 1 depicts one embodiment for a flexible and durable wire 100consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. The metalconductive layer 105 is shown as a single conductor. In otherimplementations, this conductor 105 is manufactured as anelongated/segmented conductor 105 that runs to provide two or moreseparate conductors (e.g., for redundancy, feedback and related “cablesmart” applications). One or more additional layers 110 (e.g., polyamidecladding, carbon hermetic seal layer), or partial layers, can beincluded for self-sealing of micro-cracked (optically or electrically)conductive layers 105. For example, in response to externally-appliedheat or internal heat generated by electrical current (e.g., with orwithout additional resistive elements generating heat therefrom).Processes for identifying the location of such micro-cracks includesignal feeds with responsive sensing for testing electrical shorts on aDC current basis and using AC current approaches, impedance reflectionanalyses. The flexible and durable wire 100 includes a glass or silicacore 115 that provides flexibility to the wire 100 such that it can bendapproximately about 8 to 10 times the fiber core diameter 115 withoutdamage.

FIG. 2 depicts a mesh layout that includes vertical communicationscircuits 202 and horizontal communications circuits 204. Depending uponthe application, the circuits can be designed to transmit and/or receivesignals. The mesh is depicted as being straight line-connections betweencommunications circuits, however, the use of the flexible and durablewires discussed herein to form the mesh layout allows for the mesh to beused in connection with non-linear mesh layouts, deformable structures,moveable structures and other variations. For instance, a mesh layoutcould be fixed to (or made an integral part of) an aeronauticalcomponent that has significant curvatures, and that may be subject tomovement and/or significant environmental stresses. The mesh could thenbe used to monitor the structural integrity of the component bydetecting any breaches in the mesh.

For instance, the communication circuits can be used to detect a breakin one or more of the flexible and durable wires by transmitting andreceiving electrical signals along the wires. Alternatively and/or inaddition, optical signals can be transmitted through the wires. Thetransmitted signals can then be used to detect a broken wire, indicatingthat the mesh has been breached. Coordinating between the vertical andhorizontal wires, a specific location for the breach can be determined.

In some instances, one or more cross points 206 can connect(electrically and/or optically) vertical and horizontal wires. Thecommunication signals can be indexed using the communication circuits toselectively activate/communicate on different wires. The connectionpoints can be designed using a variety of different mechanismsincluding, but not necessarily limited to, removal of insulatingmaterial to allow direct contact between electrical conductive layers(with possible laser welds, conductive adhesive or the like) and the useof physical (intelligent) connectors as discussed in more detail herein.

In some instances multiple wires can span a single connection betweenthe communications circuits 202, 204. The multiple wires can beconnected at intermediate point(s) to allow communication to passbetween the communication circuits 202, 204.

In certain instances intelligent connection device(s) can be located atintermediate point(s). For instance, sensors can be located atintermediate points and data from the sensor can be retrieved at/bycommunications circuits 202, 204. The use of a mesh array allows forindexing of the individual sensors.

In certain embodiments, each depicted line can represent multipledifferent wires, e.g., where the wires are bundled together. The wireswithin such a bundle can carry a common signal, or they can beindividually addressable depending upon the application and design.

FIG. 3 depicts a mesh layout with a return path for the flexible anddurable wires. As shown by points 308, both ends of the wires can beconnected to a common communications device 302, 304. This can be usefulwhere, for example, the far end (near 308) of the wire mesh is notreadily available for placement or use of a communications device. Forinstance, the wire mesh may be placed upon a structure that is tetheredat one or more points, but is otherwise free to move. For example, thestructure may be free to float in a liquid or to move with air flow. Insome embodiments of the present disclosure, the communications devices302, 304 can be implemented at a common location, which can allow foreven more freedom of movement. The mesh structure having crossed wirescan be maintained (if desired) through careful routing of the wires.

FIG. 4 depicts a mesh layout with two continuous runs of wire providingthe mesh layout. The different communications structures 402, and 404can be attached to each end of the wires (similar to the discussion ofFIG. 2) or a single communications structure can be attached either toboth ends (similar to the discussion of FIG. 3) or a single end.

In certain instances, one or more of the above mesh layouts can be usedin connection with a flexible fabric. This flexible fabric can include,but is not limited to, fabrics within vehicles (e.g., automotive,aeronautical, naval) and clothing.

FIG. 5 depicts a wire having an optically exposed portion, consistentwith embodiments of the present disclosure. As discussed herein, wire502 can include an optically transitive portion 504. The wire 502 canhave an intermediate portion 506 altered to expose the opticallytransitive portion 504. An optical detector 508 can be used to detectthe presence of light at the exposed portion. An optical detector 508can also be configured to use the electronic properties of wire 502(e.g., for communications and/or power).

The ability to sense light can be of use for a variety of applicationsincluding, but not limited to, breach of a sealed area, detection oflighting conditions in remote locations, detection of daylight, orautomatically enabling (safety) lights in the absence of light. Forinstance, a system in an aircraft can use such a configuration toprovide dual functionality to backup/redundant lighting systems. Thewires can provide power and control to emergency lighting, while at thesame time automatically detect the loss of light in the airplane. Incertain embodiments, the location of the intermediate exposed portion506 for various wires can be located proximate to various lights thatshould be continuously lit. In the event that all (or most) of thelights fail, this failure can be detected by the emergency system, whichcan be configured to be isolated/separated from the primary lightingsystem. The light passed into the exposed areas is converted by anoptical converter (e.g., commercially available from Texas Instruments)to a voltage signal for electrical conductance by the wire.

FIG. 6 also depicts a wire 600 having an optically exposed portion 605,consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 shows thatthe optically exposed portion 605 can also (or alternatively) be used todeliver light. The light delivered by one or more such wires 600 can beused for a variety of purposes and functions. In certain instances, thelight can be used to trigger a remote optical sensor 610. This may beparticularly useful where the optical sensor 610 is not directly coupledto the wire(s). In other instances, the light may be used to trigger achemical reaction. Numerous other possibilities are also contemplated.

FIG. 7 also shows that multiple wires 700 having exposed portions 705can provide an electrically exposed portion. In certain instances, theelectrically exposed portion 705 can be connected to an electricaldevice for intermediate communication therewith (and/or providingpower). In other instances, the electrically exposed portion 705 can beused to detect conductive changes in material in contact with theexposed portion. For instance, exposure to water or other conductivematerial could cause the impedance to change by shorting the wire 700.This can be particularly useful for detecting unwanted moisture (or fuelleakage) in a vehicle or structure. In another instance, the wire 700could be located within a liquid that may undergo chemical changes thatcan be detected by the exposed wire.

A run of wires 700, as shown in FIG. 7, may pass through multiplecompartments of a vehicle, building or device. Each compartment can beindexed/correlated to one or more wires 700 having a correspondingexposed portion 705. Detected light from a particular wire can then beused to determine the compartment from which the lighting originated.For instance, if a normally sealed compartment is breached, the wiringcan be used to automatically detect the breach as well as determine theprecise location thereof. Light can also be provided to specificcompartments. This can be useful for conveying information to sensorequipment in the compartments without having to terminate the wire inthe compartment. Thus, a single wire can run between two points toprovide electrical communication (and/or power) therebetween, while alsoproviding optical communication at an intermediate point. In certainembodiments, the exposed portion of the wire can be coated with amaterial that provides optical transmittance and electrical insulation.

FIG. 8 depicts a ribbon cabling option, consistent with embodiments ofthe present disclosure. The individual wires 800 can be bound togetherin a largely two-dimensional manner as depicted, with connectivematerial 805 separating the individual wires 800. The connectivematerial 805 can be any one of various insulators including, but notlimited to, different types of plastics. In one instance, an end of theribbon cable can be directly connected to a physical connector. Inanother instance, one or more of the individual wires 800 can branch off(e.g., to disparate remote connection points). Such cabling can beparticularly useful for bundling of the cables in a manner that isoptimized for particular stresses. For instance, ribbon cable can beused within (and to connect between two different) electronic devicessuch as computers and handheld devices.

FIG. 9 depicts cabling for various bundling of wires, consistent withembodiments of the present disclosure. Bundling option 902 shows alarger cable containing multiple smaller cables. Each smaller cable caninclude multiple individual wires. At various points, larger cable isconfigured to allow for one or more of the smaller bundles to leave thelarger bundle in order to route the corresponding individual wires to adifferent physical location, relative to the larger bundle. This can beparticularly useful for long runs of cabling with multiple drop-offpoints, such as in an aircraft or a naval vessel. The light weight anddurability of the wires can be well suited for harsh environmentalconditions associated with such applications.

Bundling option 904 shows a single cable with multiple individual wiresand without smaller bundles being contained therein. At various points,one or more of the wires can leave the larger bundle and then thecorresponding individual wires can be routed to a different physicallocation (relative to the main cable). Alternatively, all wires canterminate/leave the bundle at the same point.

Bundling option 906 shows a connector between two runs of cabling. Theconnector can serve a number of purposes. A first possible purpose is aphysical anchor point for the individual wires and the associated runsof cabling. Another purpose includes breaking the run of cabling intodistinct segments, which can facilitate replacement of faulty wiring byallowing a shorter segment to be replaced (as opposed to replacing alonger run of cabling as would be used without the connector separatingthe run into two segments). Yet another possible purpose is to allow anaccess/drop-off point to route signals or power to or from the cable.External devices can be linked to the wires through the connector.Alternatively, or in addition, the connector can provide a branchingoption in which additional cable run(s) can be added (e.g., a singlecable can branch into multiple cables at the connector). The connectorcan also serve to amplify transmitted signals on the wires to allow forlonger runs of cabling, whether the signals are electrical or optical. Afurther possible purpose is to provide intelligent connection, controland/or switching of signals between the wires. The connector can includeintelligent routing between individual wires. This can be particularlyuseful for avoiding the need to track which wire is connected to whichinput or output, and coordinate the connections on each end. Rather, thewires can be arbitrarily connected to the connector, which communicateswith remote devices on each end of the runs of wire to determine how toroute signals from a wire on the first run to a corresponding wire onthe second run. Moreover, this can allow for dynamic adjustment, such ascompensating for failure events (e.g., failure of remote devices orfailure of individual wires) by rerouting data between the runs ofcable. In some instances, the runs of cable include one or moreredundant/backup wires, allowing for signals carried on failed wires tobe rerouted to the redundant wires.

FIG. 10 depicts a system for power generation and delivery, consistentwith embodiments of the present disclosure. Using one or more of thewire delivery solutions discussed herein, power can be provided frommobile generator stations 1002 to a power collection point 1004.Non-limiting examples of mobile generator stations 1002 include (ocean)wave-powered generators, high-altitude generators and offshore/floatingwind-powered stations. These and other mobile stations can benefit fromdurable, flexible and light weight electrical power delivery solutions.For instance, high-altitude generators can operate similar to a kite orglider that is tethered to the ground via a power delivery cable. Thistether is subject to significant movements and strain and the weightthereof can adversely affect the ability of the generator to stay aloft.Similarly, water-based solutions can be subject to repetitive motion andassociated strains. In some instances, the power generators might beadversely affected by motion dampening that might be caused by aconnection to heavy cabling.

FIG. 11 depicts a multiple wire solution with built-in redundancy,consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. Various systemssubject wiring to significant stresses and harsh environmentalconditions while also requiring high reliability. For instance, manyvehicles (whether aeronautical, naval, ground-based or otherwise)subject wiring to repetitive vibration, and/or adverse temperatures.Moreover, weight can be a significant factor in design and functionthereof.

Various embodiments provide cross-connection points 1105 betweenmultiple wires 1100 or cables of wires. For instance, electrical power(or data communications) can be sent along each wire. At thecross-connection point, the wires 1100 can be electrically(re)connected. If one wire fails before the cross-connection point 1105,it will cease to provide electrical power. This will effectively reducethe power-providing capabilities of the system and increase theeffective resistance of the wires 1100 by removing one parallel path.However, at a connection point 1105, that is after the failed/breakpoint, all wires are reconnected, effectively allowing the failed wireto once again provide power. This reconnection can be particularlyuseful for mitigating the effect of multiple wire failures. Forinstance, FIG. 11 depicts four wires, with two failed wires (breakpoints) 1110; however, at the cross-connection 1105, there are at leastthree wires available to provide power (from the power source 1115) atevery point along the run.

FIG. 12 depicts a set of one or more wires 1200 separated by a material1205, consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. In certainstructures and applications it can be beneficial to detect moisture andother contaminants. This includes, but is not limited to, vehicles andbuildings. Electrical wiring is already desirable for many suchapplications. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure makeuse of the flexible and durable wire to detect moisture or othercontaminants. In certain embodiments, one or more wires 1200 of a run ofwires (whether configured in a sheet, cable or individually routed) hasthe electrical conductive portion exposed along the run. Two sets ofsuch exposed wire(s) can be separated by a material 1205 that is aninsulator or nominally-conductive. The separating material 1205,however, is selected such that its conductivity changes when it isexposed to moisture or other contaminants. A device 1210 monitors theconductivity between the separated wires and thereby detects moisturewhen the conductivity changes.

In certain embodiments, the wires 1200 can be arranged on opposite sidesof a sheet of the separating material 1205 and then placed within thewalls of the structure. This can be particularly useful for detectingsmall moisture leaks within locations that are difficult to otherwisemonitor. The wiring can also be used for other purposes, includingproviding power and data communications.

FIG. 13 depicts a wire 1300 having multiple conductive paths, consistentwith embodiments of the present disclosure. The wire 1300 includesmultiple breaks 1305 that allow the conductive portions of the wire 1300to be segmented into individually addressable conductors 1310. Thus,different signals or voltages (e.g., for power) can be provided on thesame wire 1300 but on different conductors 1310. The breaks 1305 can becreated using several possible manufacturing steps, a few non-limitingexamples are described herein.

In a first example, masking material can be applied to the wire 1300before conductive material is applied. The conductive material is thenapplied. In one instance, the strips are then physically removed tocreate the breaks 1305. In another instance, the material of the stripsare resistant to metal deposition and therefore metal does not form onthe material during the deposition process.

In another example, the metal deposition process is with only a portionof the wire 1300 exposed to the source of the metal deposition. Theportion can include different sides of the wire 1300, each separated bya physical gap. Thereafter, insulating material can be deposited overand between the deposited metal portions.

FIG. 14 depicts connection solutions for intersecting wires 1400,consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. An intersectionpoint of wires or connector can be linked using an electrical connector1405 that contacts each of the wires 1400. In some instances, a directelectrical connection between the wires 1400 can be provided by theconnector 1400. In other instances, an intelligent connection circuit1420 can provide additional functionality. The intelligent connectioncircuit 1420 can provide a number of different functions.

For instance, a first function can include signal reproduction,filtering and/or amplification (e.g. using processor logic circuitry1435). This can be particularly useful for maintaining signal integrityover long distances. The intelligent connector 1420 can provide signalconditioning in a unidirectional or bidirectional manner depending uponthe application.

In another instance, the intelligent connection circuit 1420 can providea controllable connection between the wires. For instance, theintelligent connection circuit 1420 can function as a (transistor-based)switch 1440 that connects or disconnects the wires 1400 from oneanother.

In still other instances, the intelligent connection circuit 1420 cantransmit and/or receive data to remote devices using either (or both)wires 1400. The intelligent connection circuit 1420 can be connected toa local device (e.g., a sensor) and transmit information to and from thelocal device. In a particular implementation, multiple intelligentconnection circuits can be used to daisy-chain multiple differentsensors using a common run of wiring. For instance, an aircraft may havesensors, or other devices that are located throughout the cabin. Usingan intelligent connection circuit 1420, sensors can be linked using acommon run of wire. In certain instances, the intelligent connectioncircuit 1420 uses a communication protocol designed to accommodatepossible communication conflicts. For instance, a time-divisionmultiplexed scheme can be used so that the devices are assigneddifferent time slots for communication. In another instance, collisionavoidance and/or collision detection and handling protocols are used.

FIG. 15 depicts connection solutions for intersecting wires 1500,consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG.15, an intelligent connection circuit 1505 can provide an interface formany different wires. In certain embodiments the intelligent connectioncircuit 1505 can selectively connect one wire to any of severaldifferent possible wires 1500. This can be useful for providing routingflexibility, as well as for dynamic rerouting to provide redundancy(e.g., for communications or power for vital systems in an aircraft).Examples of intelligent/(electrically or optically) controllableswitching circuitry 1510 can be found in a variety of previouslydocumented and commercially available resources, including for example,programmable logic arrays 1515, microcontrollers and single andmulti-chip IC packages (e.g., as sold by Xilinx, Microchip, Intel, TexasInstruments and Analog Devices). For an example of another type ofswitching circuitry, reference may be made to U.S. Pat. No. 6,636,014(Payne), U.S. Pat. No. 7,683,585 (Johnson) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,726,553(Waugh), each of which is fully incorporated herein by reference for allthat they contain.

The various embodiments discussed herein can be used in combination withone or more other embodiments. Moreover, various embodiments relate tosystems that include transceiver circuits designed for use with thewires discussed herein. Certain embodiments include transceivers thatuse both the electrical and optical properties of the wire forcommunication, power and/or delivery of stimulus. For instance,electrical properties can be used as a primary communication method,with optical communications as a redundant backup option (or viceversa). In the event that an electrical fault is detected (e.g., a shortcircuit condition) optical communication can be used until theelectrical fault has been corrected.

In other embodiments, the electrical and optical communicativeproperties can be used in combination. This can be particularly usefulfor increasing communication bandwidth and also for providing increasedcommunication integrity and/or security. For instance, an optical signalcan be sent that includes error correction code for data communicated onthe electrical conductor.

FIG. 16 shows an optical fiber cable 1600 with a glass or plasticoptical fiber 1605 that carries light along its length and variouslayers of protective and strengthening materials 1610/1615 surroundingthe optical fiber, consistent with various aspects of the presentdisclosure. This cable 1600 is useful in connection with, for example,data transfer (one-way or two-way); data transfer and providing power toa source; integration of multiple fibers into a mesh; sensing; andvarious uses thereof. In certain embodiments of this type, theillustrated arrangement addresses environmental and usage concernsincluding optical fiber 1605 reliability problems such as damage to thebuffer layer 1610 and/or cladding layer 1615, such as micro-cracks, thatcan grow with time when the optical fiber 1600 is exposed, particularlyin hostile environment conditions, and such as reduced lighttransmission which can impede the necessary critical usages. The layersinclude hot melt thermal plastic material 1620 comprising ethylene vinylacetate (EVA) to facilitate self-healing of such damage in the opticalfiber cable 1600. Specific applications include without limitation,space, and marine environments to minimize outgassing and the ability towork with radiation resistant fibers/shielding while adding little ifany size/weight.

Implementation of the optical fiber cable 1600 (see, also FIG. 1), withor without the module 1625 can be to provide data transfer. Data can betransferred either one-way or two-ways. In an embodiment directedtowards one-way data transfer, data can be transferred from a module1625, or like device, and to a source; or from the source to the module1625. In two-way data communication, data transfer can occur both fromthe module 1625 to the source, and from the source to the module 1625.Two-way data transfer allows, for example, feedback between twoapparatuses, and/or simultaneous exchange of data. The two-way datatransfer can be accomplished by utilizing multiple bundling of cables1600 (see FIG. 9 and discussion thereof), or layering of the cables 1600(i.e., cables wrapped around a subsequent cable). Additionally, theoptical fiber cable 1600 can be used to transfer data (one-way ortwo-way transfer) and provide power to a source (e.g., through use ofmultiple bundles of cables or layers of cables). Further, the opticalfiber cables can be woven into a mesh-like structure, which can berandom or organized, in order to provide multiple signals and multiplesingle paths. In this manner, a large number of signals can be exchangedwhile maintaining numerous pathways for which those signals can beexchanged (avoiding interrupt if one of the signals is cut). See, e.g.,FIGS. 2-4 (and discussions thereof). Moreover, the optical fiber cablescan be strung together utilizing smart interconnects. See, e.g., FIG.14. In this manner, multiple fiber cables can be connected together, andthe smart interconnects can be utilized to determine, for example, ifthere is a break in the chain. This discussion can be applicable to allcable-based embodiments discussed herein. For further discussionregarding optical fiber cables, further reference can be made to FIGS.1-13. In this type of embodiment, the module is also exemplified by wayof the basic diagram discussed in connection with FIGS. 1-2 of U.S. Pat.No. 8,050,527, (Noddings) which is incorporated by references for thisteaching.

FIG. 17 shows a cable-based sensing system that carries signals from thelengths or sensor nodes which are located in and nearby seat cushions1700, consistent with various aspects of the present disclosure. Thelayers include different conductors for different mediums ofcommunications such as optical fiber cable 1705 for high-speed data suchas video and, via conductive paths in the same cable 1705, concurrentcommunication of other data such as seat-related sensing (e.g., seatbelt status, seatbacks upright, tampered-with seat cushions, passengersseated during turbulence conditions) and such as other endpoint nodesfor light-indicating status to the passengers, flight attendant needsand sensing Wi-Fi applications being on. Specific applications includewithout limitation, aircraft, space, and marine environments to minimizethe amount of cabling needed to provide multiple communication bussing.This approach also offsets need for visual inspections of the seatbefore, during and after takeoff.

Implementation of the cable-based sensing system (see, also FIG. 1) canbe used to provide data transfer along multiple rows of seats, and alongairplane aisles, to a single control center (e.g., CPU) that can processand display the data (e.g., seat belt status, seatbacks upright,tampered-with seat cushions, passengers seated during turbulenceconditions). Data from the seats can be transferred one-way by providingan indication to the control center of what is sensed. Data can also betransferred two-ways by providing an indication of what is sensed, andproviding a feedback indication to the passenger that, for example,their seatback is not upright. One way and two-way data transfer (andpower transfer) is discussed in further detail above with reference to“A,” and in further detail in additionally attached figures (see, e.g.,FIG. 9). Further, the optical fiber cables can be woven into a mesh-likestructure, which can be random or organized, in order to providemultiple signals and multiple single paths, and placed in the seatcushion. In this manner, a large number of signals can be exchangedwhile maintaining numerous pathways for which those signals can beexchanged (avoiding interrupt if one of the signals is cut). See, e.g.,FIGS. 2-4 (and discussions thereof). Additionally, the meshes can belayered to create, for example, a pressure sensor for indicating whethera passenger is in their seat (see FIG. 7). Moreover, the optical fibercables can be strung together utilizing smart interconnects 1420′. See,e.g., FIG. 14. In this manner, multiple fiber cables can be connectedtogether, and the smart interconnects can be utilized to determine, forexample, if there is a break in the chain. In this type of embodiment,the seat cushion arranged is also exemplified by way of the basicdiagram discussed in connection with FIG. 11 of U.S. Pat. No. 8,094,041(Wentland et al.) which is incorporated by references for this teaching.

FIG. 18 shows a cable-based sensing system for monitoring flight controlsurfaces (e.g., ailerons, elevators, rudders, spoilers, flaps, slats,airbrakes, and/or other suitable control surfaces) on an airplane thatare used to maneuver and control the altitude of an aircraft, consistentwith various aspects of the present disclosure. The cable-based sensingsystem includes cable(s) 1800 that run along the edge of the wings tothe slats locating on the leading edges of wings. This cable 1800 (orarray of cables) is useful in connection with monitoring situations thatresult (e.g., jams, disconnects) that may cause the slats to fail tomove or operate in a manner that is normal or operable. The layersinclude different conductors for different mediums of communicationssuch as measuring different skews or changes along the wings andcorresponding to the slats, which can alter the control surfaces anddifferent portions of the airplane via conductive paths in the samecable, and can include concurrent communication of other data relatingto the control surfaces. The multiple layers allow for less sensors,less wiring while increasing the number of control surfaces that can bemonitored, and the number of different misalignments, disconnects andjams (for example) that can be monitored. Specific applications includewithout limitation, aircraft, space, and marine environments to minimizethe amount of cabling needed to provide multiple communication bussing.This approach also offsets need for multiple sensors and multiple wiresfor monitoring the multiple sensors.

The cable-based sensing system can also be used for determiningatmospheric condition changes on critical flight surfaces (e.g., wings,stabilizers, rudders, ailerons, propulsion system components, fuselageof the aircraft), consistent with various aspects of the presentdisclosure. The atmospheric conditions that contribute to changes oncritical flight surfaces include but are not limited to humidity,temperature, and the presence of biological or chemical agents on thesurfaces of the flight surfaces. The cable-based sensing system includescable(s) that run along surfaces of the aircraft, and to the criticalareas relating to propulsions systems. The layers include differentconductors for different mediums of communications such as measuring themany different surfaces and areas of interest on the aircraft, as wellas the many atmospheric conditions that may be of interest. Specificapplications include without limitation, aircraft, space, and marineenvironments to allow for monitoring of atmospheric conditions theentire length of the cable-based sensor system rather than only at thesensor's location. This approach also offsets need for multiple sensorsand multiple wires for monitoring the multiple sensors.

Implementation of the cable(s) can include one-way or two-way datatransfer. In an embodiment directed towards one-way data transfer, datacan be transferred from a sensor to a control system. In two-way datacommunication, data transfer can be from the sensor to the controlsystem, and, for example, in response thereto, the control system canprovide a signal to adjust the flight control surfaces. Further, theoptical fiber cables 1800 can be woven into a mesh-like structure, whichcan be random or organized, in order to provide multiple signals andmultiple single paths. In this manner, a large number of signals can beexchanged while maintaining numerous pathways for which those signalscan be exchanged (avoiding interrupt if one of the signals is cut). See,e.g., FIGS. 2-4 (and discussions thereof). Moreover, the optical fibercables 1900 can be strung together utilizing smart interconnects 1420′.See, e.g., FIG. 14. In this manner, multiple fiber cables 1800 can beconnected together, and the smart interconnects can be utilized todetermine, for example, if there is a break in the chain. In this typeof embodiment, cable-based sensing systems for detecting suchabove-discussed events is also exemplified by way of the basic diagramsdiscussed in connection with FIGS. 4 and 7, respectively of U.S. Pat.No. 8,115,649 (Moy et al.) and U.S. Pat. No. 8,115,646 (Tanielian etal.) which are incorporated by references for this teaching.

FIG. 19 shows an optical fiber cable with a glass or plastic opticalfiber 1900 that carries light and/or electrical signals along a path,which includes various protective and strengthening materialssurrounding the optical fiber 1900, consistent with various aspects ofthe present disclosure. This cable 1900 is useful in connection withspanning a discontinuity in an optical channel. The cable 1900 in theinstant embodiment eliminates the need for multiple wire bundles thatare bulky and large (requiring extra space). Additionally, insmall/tight spaces, the optical fiber 1900 allows for difficultconnections due to the flexibility of the cable 1900. Further, thelayers include hot melt thermal plastic material comprising EVA tofacilitate self-healing of such damage in the optical fiber cable 1900,so that the cable 1900 does not have to be replaced when it is damaged.In certain embodiments of this type, the illustrated arrangement servesto address environmental and usage concerns including optical fiberreliability problems, such as damage to cable 1900 (i.e., the bufferlayer and/or cladding layer), such as micro-cracks, that can grow withtime when the optical fiber is exposed particularly in hostileenvironment conditions, and such as reduced light transmission and/orelectrical signal transmission which can impede the necessary criticalusages. Specific applications include without limitation, space, andmarine operations/environments to provide continuation of a fiber opticchannel through structures such as bulkheads 1905, and may notfacilitate repair of fiber when original fiber may be damaged such as,by way of example and not by way of limitation, from chafing, fromrepair efforts or from inadvertent damage during maintenance oroperation.

Implementation of the cable 1900 can include one-way transfer. Moreover,the optical fiber cables 1900 can be strung together utilizing smartinterconnects 1420′. See, e.g., FIG. 14. In this manner, multiple fibercables can be connected together, and the smart interconnects can beutilized to determine, for example, if there is a break in the chain. Inthis type of embodiment, the fiber optic channel provided throughstructures such as bulkheads is also exemplified by way of the basicdiagram discussed in connection with FIGS. 3-5 of U.S. Pat. No.8,023,794, (Morris et al.) which is incorporated by references for thisteaching.

FIG. 20 shows a cable-based sensing/control system for aircraft flapsand spoilers and receiving feedback from the aircraft flaps and spoilersduring operation, consistent with various aspects of the presentdisclosure. The cable-based system can itself operate as a sensor placedalong critical surfaces of flaps and spoilers (which control aircraftlift and drag) and collect data relating to, for example, drag on theflaps and spoilers; flap and spoiler position; and flap and spoilerskew. This information can be utilized by pilots of the aircrafts toadjust and control the flaps and spoilers along the same cable. In thismanner, the same cable can sense critical information regarding theflaps and spoilers, provide the information to the pilot, and controlthe adjustment of the flaps and spoilers. The single cable can includemultiple layers of different conductors (for different mediums ofcommunications and different data transfers) or multiple internal cordsthat can transfer multiple data streams simultaneously. This approachalso offsets need for multiple sensors and multiple wires formonitoring/controlling the flaps and spoilers.

Data can be transferred either one-way or two-ways. In an embodimentdirected towards one-way data transfer, data can be transferred from acontrol, or like device, and to a source (flaps or spoilers); or fromthe source to the module. In two-way data communication, data transfercan occur both from the control to the source, and from the source tothe control. Two-way data transfer allows for, e.g., feedback betweentwo apparatuses, and/or simultaneous exchange of data. The two-way datatransfer can be accomplished by utilizing multiple bundling of cables902′ (see FIG. 9 and discussion thereof), or layering of the cables(i.e., cables wrapped around a subsequent cable). Additionally, theoptical fiber cable can be used to transfer data (one-way or two-waytransfer) and provide power to a source (e.g., through use of multiplebundles of cables or layers of cables). Further, the optical fibercables can be woven into a mesh-like structure, which can be random ororganized, in order to provide multiple signals and multiple singlepaths. Implementations allow for both sensing of data relating to theflaps and spoilers (atmospheric and otherwise), and also controlthereof. In this type of embodiment, the cable-based sensing/controlsystem for aircraft flaps and spoilers is also exemplified by way of thebasic diagram discussed in connection with FIG. 2 of U.S. Pat. No.7,891,611, (Huynh et al.) which is incorporated by references for thisteaching.

FIG. 21 shows a system for launch and recovery of an unmanned aerialvehicle using a pole member attached to a deck of a ship, an arm memberattached to the pole being able to move rotationally around the pole(and sometimes up and down), and an attachment mechanism for holding andlaunching the aircraft, consistent with various aspects of the presentdisclosure. Including along each member is a flexible cable-basedsensing system for determining the positioning of each member, anddetermining the grip strength on the attachment mechanism, anddetermining whether there was successful launch of the aircraft.

Implementation of the cable can include one-way transfer. Additionally,embodiments can be directed towards two-way data communication toprovide signals, feedback based on the provided signals, and power tothe aspects of the system (e.g., the grip on the attachment mechanism).Moreover, the optical fiber cables can be strung together utilizingsmart interconnects 1402′. See, e.g., FIG. 14. In this manner, multiplefiber cables can be connected together, and the smart interconnects canbe utilized to determine, for example, if there is a break in the chain.In this type of embodiment, the unmanned aircraft is also exemplified byway of the basic diagram discussed in connection with FIG. 6 of U.S.Pat. No. 8,028,952, (Urnes, Sr.) which is incorporated by references forthis teaching.

FIG. 22A shows an optical fiber cable arrangement, constructed with aglass or plastic optical fiber, which carries light along its length(including various layers of protective and strengthening materialssurrounding the optical fiber), consistent with various aspects of thepresent disclosure. The cables are included on the edges of a portablerunway for an aircraft. The fibers are flexible such that the portablerunway can be rolled for deployment, and rolled back up for carrying andstorage. The cables include light paths for an aircraft landing atnight. Additionally, the runway can include solar cells to charge thelight paths during the day. In certain embodiments of this type, theillustrated arrangement serves as a hidden and portable runway so as toaddress environmental and usage concerns including optical fiberreliability problems such as damage to the fiber (i.e., the buffer layerand/or cladding layer), such as micro-cracks, that can grow with timewhen the optical fiber is exposed particularly in hostile environmentconditions. The damage could result in reduced light transmission whichcan impede the necessary critical usages. The layers include hot meltthermal plastic material comprising EVA to facilitate self-healing ofsuch damage in the optical fiber cable. In this type of embodiment, theportable runway is also exemplified by way of the basic diagramdiscussed in connection with FIG. 10 of U.S. Pat. No. 7,538,668, (Velhalet al.) which is incorporated by references for this teaching.

FIG. 22B shows an optical fiber cable 2200 arrangement, constructed witha glass or plastic optical fiber, which carries light along its edges(including various layers of protective and strengthening materialssurrounding the optical fiber), consistent with various aspects of thepresent disclosure. The base, surrounded by the edged light fibers, canbe constructed of a mesh of the optical fiber cables 2200, as well as aprotective covering (e.g., rubber, Kevlar) for an aircraft to land. Thecables 2200 are included on the edges of a portable runway for anaircraft. The fibers are flexible such that the portable runway can befolded for deployment, and refolded for carrying and storage. The cables2200 include light paths for an aircraft landing at night. Additionally,the runway can include solar cells to charge the light paths during theday. In certain embodiments of this type, the illustrated arrangementserves as a hidden and portable runway so as to address environmentaland usage concerns including optical fiber reliability problems such asdamage to the fiber (i.e., the buffer layer and/or cladding layer), suchas micro-cracks, that can grow with time when the optical fiber isexposed particularly in hostile environment conditions. The damage couldresult in reduced light transmission which can impede the necessarycritical usages. The layers include hot melt thermal plastic materialcomprising EVA to facilitate self-healing of such damage in the opticalfiber cable 2200.

FIG. 22C shows an optical fiber cable 2200 arrangement, constructed witha glass or plastic optical fiber, which carries light along its length(including various layers of protective and strengthening materialssurrounding the optical fiber), consistent with various aspects of thepresent disclosure. The cables 2200 are included on the edges of aportable runway for an aircraft. The fibers are flexible such that theportable runway can be rolled for deployment, and rolled back up forcarrying and storage. The cables 2200 include light and/or remotelydetectable paths for an aircraft landing at night, and using heatelements (responsive to current running through the cables 2200) theplanes can view the runway by remote heat sensitive detection equipment(e.g., infrared sensors). Additionally, the runway can include solarcells to charge the light paths during the day. Further, the cables 2200can include communications capabilities (e.g., production of an electricfield, GPS) that could be sensed by incoming aircrafts to aid innavigation. Further, the base, surrounded by the edged light fibers, canbe constructed of a mesh of the optical fiber cables 2200, as well as aprotective covering (e.g., rubber, Kevlar) for an aircraft to land. Incertain embodiments of this type, the illustrated arrangement serves asa hidden and portable runway so as to address environmental and usageconcerns including optical fiber reliability problems such as damage tothe fiber (i.e., the buffer layer and/or cladding layer), such asmicro-cracks that can grow with time when the optical fiber is exposed,particularly in hostile environment conditions. The damage could resultin reduced light transmission which can impede the necessary criticalusages. The layers include hot melt thermal plastic material comprisingEVA to facilitate self-healing of such damage in the optical fiber cable2200.

Arrangements can include multiple bundles, and power can be provided toheating/lighting elements in order to allow for heat to be generated andmaintained. The portable airstrip can be detected at night withoutlights that might compromise the location of the airstrip. Additionally,the cables 2200 can include control functionality such that the lightingand/or heating elements can be adjusted.

Implementations of the optical fiber cable 2200 arrangement can takemultiple forms. For example, the cables 2200 can be used to providelight along the path to provide a viewing for a plane landing.Additionally, as the optical cable 2200 can include multiple bundles,power can be provided to heating elements in order to allow for heat tobe generated and maintained. In this manner, aircrafts can use heatsensors (e.g., infrared sensors) to locate the portable airstrip, anduse the head for guidance. The portable airstrip can be detected atnight without lights that might compromise the location of the airstrip.Additionally, the cables 2200 can include control functionality suchthat the lighting and/or heating elements can be adjusted. The opticalfiber cables 2200 can also be woven into a mesh-like structure, whichcan be random or organized, in order to provide multiple signals andmultiple single paths, and provide heating and/or lighting elements tothe entire base of the airstrip. Large numbers of signals can beexchanged while maintaining numerous pathways for which those signalscan be exchanged (avoiding interrupt if one of the signals is cut). See,e.g., FIGS. 2-4 (and discussions thereof). The optical fiber cables 2200can be strung together utilizing smart interconnects 1420′. See, e.g.,FIG. 14. In this manner, multiple fiber cables 2200 can be connectedtogether, and the smart interconnects can be utilized to determine, forexample, if there is a break in the chain. In these types ofembodiments, the portable runways are also exemplified by way of thebasic diagram discussed in connection with FIG. 1 of U.S. Pat. No.5,736,995, (Bohorquez et al.) which is incorporated by references forthis teaching.

FIG. 23A shows a cable-based system for transferring and collectingconverted sunlight electricity from an aircraft containing solar panels,consistent with various aspects of the present disclosure. Thecable-based system includes cable(s) can also be strung along theaircraft to monitor atmospheric condition changes on critical flightsurfaces (e.g., wings, stabilizers, rudders, ailerons, propulsion systemcomponents, fuselage of the aircraft) and flight control surfaces (e.g.,ailerons, elevators, rudders, spoilers, flaps, slats, airbrakes, and/orother suitable control surfaces). The cable-based sensing system can runfrom the base station (where the solar energy is collected, stored, andprocessed) to the aircraft. The cable(s) include layers having differentconductors for different mediums of communications such as measuring themany different surfaces and areas of interest on the aircraft, as wellas the many atmospheric conditions that may be of interest. Specificapplications include without limitation, aircraft, space, and marineenvironments to allow for monitoring of atmospheric conditions theentire length of the cable-based sensor system rather than only at thesensor's location. This approach also offsets need for multiple sensorsand multiple wires for monitoring the multiple sensors, and the abilityto collect solar electricity from an airborne aircraft while monitoringits flight and control surfaces.

Implementation of the cable(s) can include one-way or two-way datatransfer. In an embodiment directed towards one-way data transfer, datacan be transferred from a sensor to a control system. In two-way datacommunication, data transfer can from the sensor to the control system,and, for example, in response thereto, the control system can provide asignal to adjust the flight control surfaces. Further, the optical fibercables can be woven into a mesh-like structure, which can be random ororganized, in order to provide multiple signals and multiple singlepaths. In this manner, a large number of signals can be exchanged whilemaintaining numerous pathways for which those signals can be exchanged(avoiding interrupt if one of the signals is cut). See, e.g., FIGS. 2-4(and discussions thereof). Moreover, the optical fiber cables can bestrung together utilizing smart interconnects 1420′. See, e.g., FIG. 14.In this manner, multiple fiber cables can be connected together, and thesmart interconnects can be utilized to determine, for example, if thereis a break in the chain. In this type of embodiment, the tethering typeof arrangement is also exemplified by way of the basic block diagramdiscussed in connection with FIG. 1 of U.S. Pat. No. 7,938,364,(Tillotson) which is incorporated by references for this teaching.

FIG. 23B shows a cable-based system for transferring and collecting datafrom an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) that may be used in a varietyof applications, such as mapping the ocean floor or training a submarinecrew, consistent with various aspects of the present disclosure. Thecable-based system can also be strung along the outside of the UUV tomonitor atmospheric condition changes on surfaces of the UUV. Thecable-based sensing system can run from a base station (where the datais collected, stored, and processed) to the UUV. The cable-based systemaddresses environmental and usage concerns including optical fiberreliability problems such as damage to the fiber (i.e., the buffer layerand/or cladding layer), such as micro-cracks, that can grow with timewhen the optical fiber is exposed particularly in hostile environmentconditions. The damage could result in reduced light transmission whichcan impede the necessary critical usages. The layers include hot meltthermal plastic material comprising EVA to facilitate self-healing ofsuch damage in the optical fiber cable.

Implementation of the cable can include one-way or two-way datatransfer. In an embodiment directed towards one-way data transfer, datacan be transferred from a watercraft to a submerged UUV. The two-waydata transfer can allow for data to also be transferred, simultaneouslyfrom the submerged UUV to the watercraft. Moreover, the optical fibercables can be strung together utilizing smart interconnects 1420′. See,e.g., FIG. 14. In this manner, multiple fiber cables can be connectedtogether, and the smart interconnects can be utilized to determine, forexample, if there is a break in the chain. In this type of embodiment,the tethering type of arrangement is also exemplified by way of thebasic block diagram discussed in connection with FIG. 1 of U.S. Pat. No.8,102,733, (Rapp et al) which is incorporated by references for thisteaching.

FIG. 23C shows a cable-based system for transferring and collecting datafrom a data collector (e.g., sonar beacon, environmental sensor) to asubmarine or a UUV, consistent with various aspects of the presentdisclosure. The cable-based system may be used in a variety ofapplications, such as for example, mapping the ocean floor, detection ofpossible torpedoes, and detection of environmental conditions (e.g.,ecosystem characteristics). The cable-based system can also be strungalong the outside of the submarine/UUV to monitor atmospheric conditionchanges on surfaces thereof. The cable-based sensing system can run fromsubmarine/UUV (where the data is collected, stored, and processed) tothe data collector. The cable-based system addresses environmental andusage concerns including optical fiber reliability problems such asdamage to the fiber (i.e., the buffer layer and/or cladding layer), suchas micro-cracks, that can grow with time when the optical fiber isexposed particularly in hostile environment conditions. The damage couldresult in reduced light transmission which can impede the necessarycritical usages. The layers include hot melt thermal plastic materialcomprising EVA to facilitate self-healing of such damage in the opticalfiber cable.

Implementation of the cable can include one-way or two-way datatransfer. In an embodiment directed towards one-way data transfer, datacan be transferred from a sensor to the submarine/UUV. In two-way datacommunication, data transfer can from the submarine/UUV to the sensor,and, for example, in response thereto, the submarine/UUV can provide asignal to adjust the sensor. Further, as the cables can be provided onthe submarine/UUV surface, data can be simultaneously collectedtherefrom. Additionally, the optical fiber cables can be woven into amesh-like structure, which can be random or organized, in order toprovide multiple signals and multiple single paths, and laid over theexterior of the submarine/UUV to collect atmospheric changes on thesurface of the submarine/UUV. In this manner, a large number of signalscan be exchanged while maintaining numerous pathways for which thosesignals can be exchanged (avoiding interrupt if one of the signals iscut). See, e.g., FIGS. 2-4 (and discussions thereof). Moreover, theoptical fiber cables can be strung together utilizing smartinterconnects 1420′. See, e.g., FIG. 14. In this manner, multiple fibercables can be connected together, and the smart interconnects can beutilized to determine, for example, if there is a break in the chain. Inthis type of embodiment, the tethering type of arrangement is alsoexemplified by way of the basic block diagram discussed in connectionwith FIG. 21 of U.S. Pat. No. 7,984,581, (Rapp et al.) which isincorporated by references for this teaching.

According to another specific example embodiment, a cable-based sensingsystem carries signals from a number of sensors identifying varioustypes of events (acoustic, visual), consistent with various aspects ofthe present disclosure. This cable is useful in connection withtransmitting a variety of signals from various sensors to a centralizedlocation 1805 for processing. The layers include different conductorsfor different mediums of communications such as optical fiber cable forhigh-speed data such as video and, via conductive paths in the samecable, concurrent communication of other data such as events relating toacoustics (e.g., gun shots, yelling, shouting) and visual events (e.g.,unauthorized trespassing, suspicious activity) and such as otherend-point nodes for indicating events that occur at the sensor location.Specific applications include without limitation, aircraft, space,marine, and outdoor environments to minimize the amount of cablingneeded to provide multiple communication bussing. This approach alsooffsets need multiple systems and platforms needed in order to increasethe ability for law enforcement agencies to respond to these types ofevents.

In this embodiment, the cable(s) can provide one-way or two-way datatransfer. In an embodiment directed towards one-way data transfer, datacan be transferred from a sensor to the event detection system. Intwo-way data communication, data transfer can from the sensor to theevent detection center, and, for example, in response thereto, the datadetection center can provide a signal to adjust the sensor (e.g.,reposition, calibrate, increase sensing rate). The cables can be strungtogether utilizing smart interconnects. See, e.g., FIG. 14. In thismanner, multiple fiber cables can be connected together, and the smartinterconnects can be utilized to determine, for example, if there is abreak in the chain. In this type of embodiment, an event detectionsystem for detecting such above-discussed events is exemplified by wayof the basic block diagram discussed in connection with FIG. 4 of U.S.Pat. No. 8,125,334, (Loyal et al.) which is incorporated by referencesfor this teaching.

According to another specific example embodiment, a cable-based systemprovides for calibration of dynamic pressures sensors utilizing aflexible high intensity calibration device to enhance the placement andpositioning of the calibration device, while mitigating possible damageto the device based on the seal of the sensor, and necessary flexibilityand movement of the calibration device, consistent with various aspectsof the present disclosure. The cable-based calibration system includescable(s) that can run to multiple dynamic pressure sensors inside andoutside of an aircraft. The cable-based calibration system has theability to run to multiple different sensors and decrease wiring. Thelayers include different conductors for different communications of thedifferent dynamic pressure sensors. Specific applications includewithout limitation, aircraft, space, and marine environments to mitigatedamage of the cable-based system due to monitoring of sensors in placesrequiring flexibility of the device in order to reach the sensor. Thisapproach also offsets need for multiple sensors and multiple wires formonitoring the multiple sensors.

Implementation of the cable(s) can include one-way or two-way datatransfer. In an embodiment directed towards one-way data transfer, datacan be transferred from a device to a calibration head. In two-way datacommunication, data transfer can occur from the calibration head to thesensor, and, for example, in response thereto, the sensor can provide asignal to adjust the calibration head. This calibration device can beutilized in automotive (e.g., cars, aircraft, ships) to calibratedifferent devices/sensors. In this type of embodiment, a calibrationsystem for calibrating such sensors discussed above is exemplified byway of the basic block diagram discussed in connection with FIG. 1 ofU.S. Pat. No. 8,107,634 (Gratzer et al.) which is incorporated byreferences for this teaching.

According to another specific example embodiment, an optical fiber cableoperates as an electric field sensor (i.e., electric field whistle) aswould be displaced on the exterior of an aircraft, consistent withvarious aspects of the present disclosure. The optical fiber cable,shown with four different example arrangements and circuitry, canprovide warning of lightning strikes based on the sensed electricalfield change on the exterior of the aircraft. The fiber cable can runthe entire length of the body of the fuselage, and the wings of theaircraft to provide continuous sensing over the entire body of theaircraft, thereby, enhancing the potential for sensing even minorchanges in the electric field. In certain embodiments of this type, theillustrated arrangement serves to address environmental and usageconcerns including optical fiber reliability problems such as damage tothe buffer layer and/or cladding layer, such as micro-cracks, that cangrow with time when the optical fiber is exposed particularly in hostileenvironment conditions and such as reduced light transmission which canimpede the necessary critical usages. The layers, length, andflexibility of the optical fiber cable can be shaped, as shown in theexample arrangements, to allow for allover coverage of the aircraft toenhance accurate sensing of electric field changes while maintainingstructural integrity of the optical fiber cable. Specific applicationsinclude without limitation, space, and marine operations/environments tomeasure electric field by removing the need for moving parts in a sensorand maximizing sensor coverage.

In an embodiment directed towards one-way data transfer, data can betransferred from the electric field whistle to a control center of anaircraft (e.g., using a radio receiver) to indicate warnings oflightning strikes. Further, the optical fiber cables can be woven into amesh-like structure (see, e.g., FIGS. 2-4), which can be random ororganized, in order to provide multiple signals and multiple singlepaths, and for greater coverage of the fuselage and airplane wings toprovide a more accurate sense of electric field changes. Moreover, theoptical fiber cables can be strung together utilizing smartinterconnects. See, e.g., FIG. 14. In this manner, multiple fiber cablescan be connected together, and the smart interconnects can be utilizedto determine, for example, if there is a break in the chain. In thistype of embodiment, electric field sensors discussed above areexemplified by way of the figures discussed in connection with FIGS.1A-E of U.S. Pat. No. 8,049,633, (Anway) which is incorporated byreferences for this teaching.

According to another specific example embodiment, an optical fiber cablewith a glass or plastic optical fiber carry light and/or electricalsignals along a path, which includes various protective andstrengthening materials surrounding the optical fiber used foraccurately counting the number of turns (and fractional incrementsthereof) that a driven part is turned for adjustment to a target oroptimal position, consistent with various aspects of the presentdisclosure. For example, airplane wings commonly use telescopic planesurfaces to temporarily increase wing surface and curvature duringtake-off and landing phases. These telescopic plane surfaces are alsoused to increase lift effect at low speed when leading and trailingedges are equipped with extendable/retractable ancillary wing surfaceswhich are actuated by a single rotary motor connected to a chain ofjackscrews linked/synchronized together by torque tubes. To ensuremechanical axial compliance during wing flex or under ambienttemperature variation, each torque tube for adjacent gearboxes isconnected through a splined shaft. The synchronization of each gearboxto insure a true parallel movement of leading and trailing edges of thewing's main beam is dependent on an exact angular indexing of eachgearbox input splined shaft. The cables are used to carry the signalsfrom the gearbox. Further, the layers of the cables include hot meltthermal plastic material comprising EVA to facilitate self-healing ofsuch damage in the optical fiber cable so that the cable does not haveto be replaced when it is damaged. Specific applications include withoutlimitation, space, and marine operations/environments to provide arevolution counter tool that can keep precise count of the number ofturns/increments of angular indexing of a gearbox or motor-driven partso that it can be returned to its optimal position during installationor repair, and even by a different mechanic. Implementation of the cablecan include one-way transfer, and use for light sensing as furtherdiscussed with reference to FIG. 5. In this type of embodiment, theoptical fiber discussed above are exemplified by way of the figuresdiscussed in connection with FIG. 6 of U.S. Pat. No. 8,020,753, (Wheeleret al.) which is incorporated by references for this teaching.

According to another specific example embodiment, an optical fiber cablewith a glass or plastic optical fiber that carries light along itslength and various layers of protective and strengthening materialssurrounding the optical fiber, consistent with various aspects of thepresent disclosure. The multiple layers of the cable for use in an arcfault monitoring system that replaces the need for numerous sensor unitsand numerous optical cables. The fiber can be strung along the powerlines, as located between a power supply and a load, and replace sensorunits located at multiple locations along the line. This allows forcontinuous sensing along the power lines rather than only sensing inlocations where sensors are placed. The faults that can be monitored bythe optical fiber cable include hard faults (e.g., with looseconnections and/or reduced integrity of the power lines), which mayoccur through an open and/or short condition in a power line.Additionally, intermittent faults (e.g., faults that may occurperiodically and/or randomly), such as an arcing fault (which may occurwhen power is transferred to a load other than those that are known) canbe monitored. The continuous sampling along the power lines by theoptical fiber allows for continuous monitoring of faults along the powerlines. Additionally, layers include hot melt thermal plastic materialcomprising EVA to facilitate self-healing of such damage in the opticalfiber cable that may result due to the environmental conditions.

Implementation of the cable can include one-way transfer. Additionally,embodiments can be directed towards two-way data communication toprovide signals and feedback based on the provided signals. Moreover,the optical fiber cables can be strung together utilizing smartinterconnects. See, e.g., FIG. 14. In this manner, multiple fiber cablescan be connected together, and the smart interconnects can be utilizedto determine, for example, if there is a break in the chain. In thistype of embodiment, the connections between power supply and a loaddiscussed above are exemplified by way of the figures discussed inconnection with FIG. 4 of U.S. Pat. No. 7,940,055, (Hanes et al.) whichis incorporated by references for this teaching.

According to another specific example embodiment, an optical fibercable-based communication system transfers data relating to monitoringand operational data of an aircraft, consistent with various aspects ofthe present disclosure. The data generated by an aircraft can include,but is not limited to: data from engines monitored at every stage ofoperation (e.g., compression ratios, rotation rate (RPM), temperature,and vibration data); fuel data, maintenance data, airplane healthmonitoring, operational information, catering data, in-flightentertainment equipment updates, and passenger data (e.g., Wi-Fi paymentand use; duty free shopping; telephone calls). The cable can offersufficient bandwidth for data transfer to and from the aircraft withoutneed for multiple cables for each data that is to be collected.Additionally, if the aircraft is retrofitted with cable-based sensingsystems, as described in other embodiments of the instant disclosure,the instant cable-based communication can collect the data associatedtherewith. The single cable can include multiple layers of differentconductors (for different mediums of communications and different datatransfers) or multiple internal cords that can transfer multiple datastreams simultaneously. This approach also offsets need for multiplewires to collect and transfer data from an aircraft operation.Additionally, as the cable can include multiple layers or multipleinternal cables, data (or updates) relating to future endeavors can betransferred to the aircraft while the previous data is downloaded.Implementation of the cable can include one-way or two-way datatransfer. In an embodiment directed towards one-way data transfer, datacan be transferred from an aircraft to a collection point. In two-waydata communication, data transfer can from the aircraft to thecollection point, and simultaneously upload new data from the collectionpoint to the aircraft. In this type of embodiment, the systems formonitoring and operational data of an aircraft discussed above areexemplified by way of the figures discussed in connection with FIG. 1 ofU.S. Pat. No. 7,893,557, (Davis et al.) which is incorporated byreferences for this teaching.

According to another specific example embodiment, an optical fiber cableoperate as a proximity sensor displaced on the exterior of an aircraftalong the fuselage and the wings, consistent with various aspects of thepresent disclosure. During pre-flight and post-flight procedures,numerous vehicles are present around an aircraft. The optical fibercable operates prevent collision of those numerous vehicles with theaircraft. The optical fiber can be spread along the fuselage and wingsas a single cord, a random mesh, or an organized mesh (for example) toprovide allover coverage of the aircraft, and thus allover coverage forproximity detection. The cable system can be connected to an audiblealarm that warns vehicles of impending collision. Alternatively or inaddition to, the ground vehicles can be equipped with a similar cableproximity sensor system to operate with the system on the aircraft andindicate impending collision. The environmental and usage concerns suchas damage (e.g., micro-cracks that can grow with time when the opticalfiber is exposed) resulting in hostile environment conditions (whichreduce light/data transmission) are alleviated by the layers, length,and flexibility of the optical fiber cable. Specific applicationsinclude without limitation, space, and marine operations/environments tomeasure electric field by removing the need for moving parts in a sensorand maximizing sensor coverage.

In an embodiment directed towards one-way data transfer, data can betransferred from a proximity sensor and to a source, which will give anindication (i.e., an audible alarm) of whether a ground vehicle is tooclose. Two-way data communication, as described with reference toembodiment A, for example, can also be implemented for feedback purposesand providing power. Further, the optical fiber cables can be woven intoa mesh-like structure, which can be random or organized, in order toprovide multiple signals and multiple single paths, and allover coverageof an aircraft (providing proximity sensors covering a larger area of anaircraft). In this manner, a large number of signals can be exchangedwhile maintaining numerous pathways for which those signals can beexchanged (avoiding interrupt if one of the signals is cut). See, e.g.,FIGS. 2-4 (and discussions thereof). Moreover, the optical fiber cablescan be strung together utilizing smart interconnects. See, e.g., FIG.14. In this manner, multiple fiber cables can be connected together, andthe smart interconnects can be utilized to determine, for example, ifthere is a break in the chain. In this type of embodiment, proximitysensors discussed above are exemplified by way of the figures discussedin connection with FIG. 2 of U.S. Pat. No. 7,869,305, (Anderson et al.)which is incorporated by references for this teaching.

According to another specific example embodiment, a cable-based systemfor transfer and collection data from a data collector (e.g., sonarbeacon, environmental sensor) to a ship is provided, consistent withvarious aspects of the present disclosure. The cable-based system may beused in a variety of applications, such as for example, mapping theocean floor, detection of possible torpedoes, and detection ofenvironmental conditions (e.g., ecosystem characteristics). Thecable-based sensing system can run from ship (where the data iscollected, stored, and processed) to the data collector. The cable-basedsystem addresses environmental and usage concerns including opticalfiber reliability problems such as damage to the fiber (i.e., the bufferlayer and/or cladding layer), such as micro-cracks, that can grow withtime when the optical fiber is exposed particularly in hostileenvironment conditions. The damage could result in reduced lighttransmission which can impede the necessary critical usages. The layersinclude hot melt thermal plastic material comprising EVA to facilitateself-healing of such damage in the optical fiber cable.

Implementation of the cable can include one-way or two-way datatransfer. In an embodiment directed towards one-way data transfer, datacan be transferred from a watercraft to a submerged sensor. The two-waydata transfer can allow for data to also be transferred, simultaneouslyfrom the submerged sensor to the watercraft. Moreover, the optical fibercables can be strung together utilizing smart interconnects. See, e.g.,FIG. 14. In this manner, multiple fiber cables can be connectedtogether, and the smart interconnects can be utilized to determine, forexample, if there is a break in the chain. In this type of embodiment,the data collection discussed above are exemplified by way of thefigures discussed in connection with FIG. 1 of U.S. Pat. No. 6,791,490,(King) which is incorporated by references for this teaching.

According to another specific example embodiment, a cable-based systemis provided for transferring, transmitting, and collecting data to andfrom a scuba diver and a data station, consistent with various aspectsof the present disclosure. The cable-based system may be used in avariety of applications, such as for example, communicating GPSinformation to the scuba diver, communicating dive related information(e.g., oxygen content, length of dive, depth of dive) from the datastation to the scuba diver, collecting information from the diver (e.g.,based on environmental sensors carried by the diver, based on a computercarried by the diver), and collecting information from the diver such asmapping the ocean floor, detection of possible torpedoes, and detectionof environmental conditions (e.g., ecosystem characteristics). Thecable-based sensing system can run from data station (where the data iscollected, stored, and processed) to the scuba diver. The cable-basedsystem addresses environmental and usage concerns including opticalfiber reliability problems such as damage to the fiber (i.e., the bufferlayer and/or cladding layer), such as micro-cracks, that can grow withtime when the optical fiber is exposed particularly in hostileenvironment conditions. The damage could result in reduced lighttransmission which can impede the necessary critical usages. The layersinclude hot melt thermal plastic material comprising EVA to facilitateself-healing of such damage in the optical fiber cable.

Implementation of the cable can include one-way or two-way datatransfer. In an embodiment directed towards one-way data transfer, datacan be transferred from a data station to a submerged scuba diver. Thetwo-way data transfer can allow for data to also be transferred,simultaneously from the submerged scuba diver to the data station.Moreover, the optical fiber cables can be strung together utilizingsmart interconnects. See, e.g., FIG. 14. In this manner, multiple fibercables can be connected together, and the smart interconnects can beutilized to determine, for example, if there is a break in the chain. Inthis type of embodiment, the data collection discussed above areexemplified by way of the figures discussed in connection with FIG. 1 ofU.S. Pat. No. 6,807,127, (McGeever, Jr.) which is incorporated byreferences for this teaching.

According to another specific example embodiment, a cable-based systemis provided for transferring, transmitting, and collecting data to andfrom a dive cage and a data station, consistent with various aspects ofthe present disclosure. The cable-based system may be used in a varietyof applications, such as for example, communicating GPS information tothe diver in the dive cage, communicating dive relating information(e.g., oxygen content, length of dive, depth of dive) from the datastation to the dive cage, collecting information from the dive cage(e.g., based on environmental sensors carried by the diver, based on acomputer carried by the diver), and collecting information from the divecage such as mapping the ocean floor, detection of possible torpedoes,and detection of environmental conditions (e.g., ecosystemcharacteristics). The cable-based sensing system can run from datastation (where the data is collected, stored, and processed) to the divecage. The cable-based system addresses environmental and usage concernsincluding optical fiber reliability problems such as damage to the fiber(i.e., the buffer layer and/or cladding layer), such as micro-cracks,that can grow with time when the optical fiber is exposed particularlyin hostile environment conditions. The damage could result in reducedlight transmission which can impede the necessary critical usages. Thelayers include hot melt thermal plastic material comprising EVA tofacilitate self-healing of such damage in the optical fiber cable.

Implementation of the cable can include one-way or two-way datatransfer. In an embodiment directed towards one-way data transfer, datacan be transferred from a data station to a submerged dive cage. Thetwo-way data transfer can allow for data to also be transferred,simultaneously from the submerged dive cage to the data station.Moreover, the optical fiber cables can be strung together utilizingsmart interconnects. See, e.g., FIG. 14. In this manner, multiple fibercables can be connected together, and the smart interconnects can beutilized to determine, for example, if there is a break in the chain. Inthis type of embodiment, the data collection discussed above areexemplified by way of the figures discussed in connection with FIG. 9 ofU.S. Pat. No. 6,807,127, (McGeever, Jr.) which is incorporated byreferences for this teaching.

According to another specific example embodiment, a neural network isprovided that learns the operating modes of a system being monitoredunder normal operating conditions, consistent with various aspects ofthe present disclosure. Anomalies can be automatically detected andlearned. A control command can be issued or an alert can be issued inresponse thereto. The nodes and different sensors are each connectedusing a cable-based system for transferring, transmitting, andcollecting data, as shown in the figure below. The cable-based systemaddresses environmental and usage concerns including optical fiberreliability problems such as damage to the fiber (i.e., the buffer layerand/or cladding layer), such as micro-cracks, that can grow with timewhen the optical fiber is exposed particularly in hostile environmentconditions. The damage could result in reduced light transmission whichcan impede the necessary critical usages. The layers include hot meltthermal plastic material comprising EVA to facilitate self-healing ofsuch damage in the optical fiber cable.

In this example, the cables can provide one-way or two-way datatransfer. In an embodiment directed towards one-way data transfer, datacan be transferred from a sensor to the system center. In two-way datacommunication, data transfer can from the sensor to the system center,and, for example, in response thereto, the system center can provide asignal to adjust the sensor (e.g., reposition, calibrate, increasesensing rate). The cables can be strung together utilizing smartinterconnects. See, e.g., FIG. 14. In this manner, multiple fiber cablescan be connected together, and the smart interconnects can be utilizedto determine, for example, if there is a break in the chain. In thistype of embodiment, the neural network discussed above are exemplifiedby way of the figures discussed in connection with FIG. 1 of U.S. Pat.No. 7,917,335, (Harrison et al.) which is incorporated by references forthis teaching. Various modules and/or other circuit-based buildingblocks may be implemented to carry out one or more of the operations andactivities described herein and/or shown in the figures. In suchcontexts, a “module” is a circuit that receives and/or transmits opticalsignals and/or electrical signals over flexible cables, consistent withthe above discussion. For example, in certain of the above-discussedembodiments, one or more modules are discrete logic circuits orprogrammable logic circuits configured and arranged for implementingthese operations/activities, as in the circuit modules shown in theFIGS. 2-6, 10-12.

As indicated above in connection with the incorporated teachings fromthe underlying provisional patent documents, corresponding aspectssetting forth embodiments for the present invention are discussed andclaimed in concurrently-filed U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/849,229 assigned to the same assignee and entitled:“CABLE/GUIDEWIRE/INTERCONNECTS COMMUNICATION APPARATUS AND METHODS”. Allsuch common teaching is hereby incorporated by reference. For example,the embodiments herein incorporate the common teachings disclosed inU.S. patent applications, Ser. No. 12/804,271 (“DURABLE FINE WIREELECTRICAL CONDUCTOR SUITABLE FOR EXTREME ENVIRONMENT APPLICATIONS”) andSer. No. 12/887,388 (“ELECTRODE AND CONNECTOR ATTACHMENTS FOR ACYLINDRICAL GLASS FIBER FINE WIRE LEAD”) pertaining to the connectorsand fine wire lead as described and/or illustrated therein.

Based upon the above discussion and illustrations, those skilled in theart will readily recognize that various modifications and changes may bemade to the present invention without strictly following the exemplaryembodiments and applications illustrated and described herein. Suchmodifications do not depart from the true spirit and scope of thepresent invention, including that set forth in the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A communication circuit for communicating betweena plurality of compartments in a vehicle, the communication circuitcomprising: an array of flexible cables configured and arranged toprovide signal-communication paths between the plurality of compartmentsin the vehicle, each cable: including a glass or silica core region forconveying optical signals, being configured and arranged to communicatesignals along at least one of the signal-communication paths and betweenthe plurality of compartments in the vehicle, the signals includingelectrical signals and optical signals, and a plurality of circuitsincluding a first circuit located at a proximate location along thearray of flexible cables and secondary circuits located at distallocations along the array of flexible cables, the plurality of circuitsconfigured and arranged to communicate status-indication signals betweenthe locations along the array of flexible cables, the status-indicationsignals being communicated via the signal-communication paths in theflexible array of cables and being indicative of a first vehicle-travelmode for reporting a status of the vehicle in a mode relative to travelof the vehicle, whereby the first circuit is configured and arranged toreceive the status-indication signals from the secondary circuits, andin response thereto, report or analyze the vehicle based on the statusof the vehicle, as indicated at the distal locations, for a moderelative to travel of the vehicle.
 2. The communication circuit of claim1, wherein the glass or silica core region has a physical characteristicthat is limited by an outer dimension that is less than 750 microns andfurther including a conductive cladding surrounding the core region. 3.The communication circuit of claim 1, wherein the status-indicationsignals are indicative of an operating function of one or more of:functionality of exterior control surfaces of the vehicle, positioningof wing flaps of the vehicle, alignment of control surfaces of thevehicle, atmospheric conditions of critical surfaces of the vehicle, andposition of wheels of the vehicle.
 4. The communication circuit of claim1, wherein the status-indication signals are indicative of seatingstatus of passengers in the vehicle.
 5. The communication circuit ofclaim 1, wherein the vehicle-travel mode is at least one of asteady-state movement mode of the vehicle, an acceleration mode of thevehicle, and a deceleration mode of the vehicle.
 6. The communicationcircuit of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is a terrain-vehicle or anautomobile in which the first circuit collects vehicle-safety dataregarding the status of vehicle while the vehicle or automobile istraveling.
 7. The communication circuit of claim 1, wherein thesignal-communication paths are further configured and arranged to passredundant status-indication signals of mechanical aspects of the vehicleand wherein the vehicle is an unmanned aerial vehicle or a mannedaircraft vehicle in which the first circuit collects vehicle-safety dataregarding the status of vehicle while the unmanned aerial vehicle or amanned aircraft vehicle is traveling.
 8. The communication circuit ofclaim 1, wherein the signal-communication paths are further configuredand arranged to pass complimentary status-indication signals ofmechanical aspects of the vehicle.
 9. The communication circuit of claim1, wherein the signal-communication paths are further configured andarranged to provide a two-way data pathway.
 10. The communicationcircuit of claim 1, wherein each cable includes at least oneelectrically exposed portion, and wherein the cable is furtherconfigured and arranged to detect conductive changes in a material ofthe cable in contact with the at least one electrically exposed portion.11. The communication circuit of claim 10, wherein the conductivechanges are indicative of unwanted moisture.
 12. The communicationcircuit of claim 1, wherein each cable includes at least one opticallyexposed portion, and wherein the cable is further configured andarranged to detect optical changes in the cable in contact with the atleast one optically exposed portion.
 13. The communication circuit ofclaim 1, wherein the secondary circuits are configured and arranged withmechanical aspects of the vehicle and communicate status-indicationsignals of the mechanical aspects.
 14. A communication circuit forcommunicating between a plurality of compartments in an unmanned aerialvehicle, the communication circuit comprising: an array of flexiblecables configured and arranged to provide signal-communication pathsbetween the plurality of compartments in the vehicle, each cable:including a glass or silica core region for conveying optical signals,being configured and arranged to communicate signals along at least oneof the signal-communication paths and between the plurality ofcompartments in the vehicle, the signals including electrical signalsand optical signals, and a plurality of circuits including a firstcircuit located at a proximate location along the array of flexiblecables and secondary circuits located at distal locations along thearray of flexible cables, the plurality of circuits configured andarranged to communicate status-indication signals between the locationsalong the array of flexible cables, the status-indication signals beingcommunicated via the signal-communication paths in the flexible array ofcables and being indicative of status of the compartments of the vehiclewhile the vehicle is airborne and without user-visual monitoringcapabilities, whereby the first circuit is configured and arranged toreceive the status-indication signals from the secondary circuits, andin response thereto, report or analyze the vehicle based on the statusof the compartments of the vehicle, as indicated at the distallocations, for a mode relative to travel of the vehicle.
 15. Thecommunication circuit of claim 14, wherein the status-indication signalsare indicative of an operating function of one or more of: functionalityof exterior control surfaces of the vehicle, positioning of wing flapsof the vehicle, alignment of control surfaces of the vehicle,atmospheric conditions of critical surfaces of the vehicle, and positionof wheels of the vehicle.
 16. The communication circuit of claim 14,wherein the mode relative to travel of the vehicle is at least one of asteady-state movement mode of the vehicle, an acceleration mode of thevehicle, and a deceleration mode of the vehicle.
 17. The communicationcircuit of claim 14, wherein the glass or silica core region has aphysical characteristic that is limited by an outer dimension that isless than 750 microns and further including a conductive claddingsurrounding the core region.
 18. A method for communicating between aplurality of compartments in a vehicle, the method comprising: providingsignal-communication paths via an array of flexible cables between theplurality of compartments in the vehicle, each cable including a glassor silica core region for conveying optical signals; communicatingsignals along at least one of the signal-communication paths and betweenthe plurality of compartments in the vehicle, the signals includingelectrical signals and optical signals; and utilizing a plurality ofcircuits including a first circuit located at a proximate location alongthe array of flexible cables and secondary circuits located at distallocations along the array of flexible cables to communicatestatus-indication signals between the locations along the array offlexible cables, the status-indication signals being communicated viathe signal-communication paths in the flexible array of cables and beingindicative of a first vehicle-travel mode for reporting a status of thevehicle in a mode relative to travel of the vehicle, whereby the firstcircuit is configured and arranged to receive the status-indicationsignals from the secondary circuits, and in response thereto, report oranalyze the vehicle based on the status of the vehicle, as indicated atthe distal locations, for a mode relative to travel of the vehicle. 19.The method of claim 18, wherein utilizing the plurality of circuitsfurther includes to determine the vehicle-travel mode being at least oneof a steady-state movement mode of the vehicle, an acceleration mode ofthe vehicle, and a deceleration mode of the vehicle.
 20. The method ofclaim 18, wherein utilizing the plurality of circuits further includesto determine if the status-indication signals are indicative of anoperating function of one or more of: functionality of exterior controlsurfaces of the vehicle, positioning of wing flaps of the vehicle,alignment of control surfaces of the vehicle, atmospheric conditions ofcritical surfaces of the vehicle, and position of wheels of the vehicle.